Bass hooked on Queensland Maroons State of Origin feeling

Fresh off an appearance in the BMD Premiership grand final, Warwick’s Emily Bass is ready for State of Origin. After making her Queensland Maroons debut last year the speedy winger has her sights set on a series win.

Emily Bass works through a drill during the Queensland Women's State of Origin Camp. Picture: QRL Media/Zain Mohammed

Emily Bass felt like her State of Origin debut was ‘over’ before it even began last year.

“I thought I knew what it (the game) would be like but it was so much more than I expected,” Bass said.

“Our coach Tahnee Norris and a lot of the experienced players described it as the ‘fastest game of rugby league you will ever play’ and they were right.

“I felt like I was out there for five minutes but when I looked up it was nearly full-time.

“Everything about Origin is bigger and better – the players, the intensity, the speed – everything.”

In a way Bass’ Origin debut was the ultimate baptism of fire.

Emily Bass in action during the Queensland Women's State of Origin Camp. Picture: QRL Media/Zain Mohammed

After making the switch from Super W Rugby she had played just a handful of league and NRLW games before being named in the Queensland side.

Back in the Maroons squad for this year’s two game series, Bass wants to enjoy the massive

sense of occasion more.

“Playing for Queensland last year was amazing,” she said.

“I didn’t have a lot of rugby league experience at the time so to be named in the squad was a real honour.

“Being able to represent your family, friends, your hometown and your state is really special.

“I’m really excited and feel honoured to have this opportunity again.

“You have to take these chances with both hands because you never know when they’ll come round again.”

Shenae Ciesiolka and Emily Bass at the Queensland Women's State of Origin Camp on the Gold Coast. Picture: QRL Media/Zain Mohammed

Playing game one in Sydney on Thursday, the Maroons will be eager to avenge last year’s loss to the Blues and Bass is confident they can get the job done.

“New South Wales are a very good side,” she said.

“They’re competitive and determined.

“It will be a real challenge for us but I think we have the team to do it.

“We’re fit, fast, strong and we have the belief in ourselves and each other.”

Bass will line up for the Maroons alongside an all too familiar face.

The speedy winger, who will play for the Gold Coast Titans in NRLW this year, is great friends with Shenae Ciesiolka.

“Shenae and I go way, we basically grew up together,” Bass said.

“We played a lot of touch football together when I was at Scots PGC College in Warwick and she was at Glennie (in Toowoomba) and I scored a double in my Broncos debut with her playing at centre.

“Shenae inspired me to make the switch from rugby union to rugby league.

“She has made my journey so much easier with the advice, support and help she has given.”

Game 1 will be played in Sydney on Thursday, June 1. Kick-off is 7.45pm.

Game 2 will be played in Townsville on Thursday, June 22. Kick-off is 7.45pm.